Suspension is a collection of components, assemblies, and mechanisms aimed to link a vehicle to its wheels, while also keeping them in contact with the road surface as much as possible. It consists of elastic guides and damping elements which are the springs, suspension arms and links, shock absorbers, and leaf springs. It also includes rubber bushings, ball joints, stabilizer bars, wheel bearings, coil spring spacers, bump stops, and fasteners.
Important information about replacing the suspension
- Suspension is one of the units that comes under the most pressure. Therefore, its components require regular checks and replacement. The stabilizer links should be replaced on average every 30,000 – 50,000 km, suspension arms and links 60,000 – 80,000 km, ball joints 90,000 – 100,000 km, shock absorbers 100,000 – 120,000 km, wheel bearings — 100,000 – 150,000 km and springs ― 200,000 – 250,000 km.
- In most cases, it is best to replace suspension system parts at a repair shop as accessing the components requires a car lift or an inspection pit. Furthermore dismantling and installing bearings and rubber bushings requires specialist equipment. Before installation, shock absorbers must be pumped. Working with springs without a spring compressor is dangerous. Wheel alignment and wheel balancing is often required after repairs have taken place.
- To buy suspension components at the lowest price, ordering them in a kit is recommended. This will let you save on delivery as well as the cost of the work. For example, when replacing the stabilizer bar, new links and bushings can also be installed. When replacing the suspension arms and links, ball joints should also be replaced. It should also be remembered that most components are installed in pairs.
- The service life of the components directly depends on the operating conditions of the vehicle. To avoid having to replace parts more frequently, buy only high-quality components that match the specification of your vehicle. If you are driving on poor quality roads or transporting heavy loads, choosing reinforced components is recommended. Driving style also influences service life. Therefore, reducing speed before bumps, puddles, and curbs is also recommended. Regularly check the integrity of protective dust boots. Periodically clean dirt from the underbody of the vehicle and the components of the suspension system.
